What is the term for a test conducted to demonstrate or test a hypothesis?

The term that refers to a test conducted to demonstrate or test a hypothesis is "experiment." This concept is fundamental in the scientific method, which involves proposing a hypothesis — a tentative explanation based on observed phenomena — and then conducting experiments to gather data and evidence that either supports or refutes it.

An experiment typically involves manipulating one or more variables while keeping others constant to observe the effects of this manipulation. This allows scientists to draw conclusions about causal relationships within the studied system. Through repeatable and controlled conditions, experiments can yield reliable data that contribute to scientific knowledge and understanding.

In contrast, a sample refers to a subset of a population used in statistical analysis, while observation involves noting and recording facts or phenomena without altering the conditions. Analysis relates to examining data to understand its implications or to derive conclusions, but it does not involve the testing of hypotheses in the way experiments do. Thus, the process of conducting experiments is central to validating scientific theories and hypotheses.